Matthew 17:21

“Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.”

Context:In the King James Version of the Bible, Matthew 17:21 reads as follows: “Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.” It is important to note that there is some debate among biblical scholars regarding the inclusion of this verse in the original text of Matthew. Some ancient manuscripts do not contain this verse, and it is missing in several modern translations. However, it is still worth exploring the meaning and significance of this verse within the context of the broader biblical teachings.

In the preceding verses (Matthew 17:14-20), Jesus has just cast out a demon from a boy who was suffering from seizures. The disciples were unable to cast out the demon themselves and asked Jesus why they had failed. In response, Jesus tells them that their unbelief is the reason for their inability to perform the miracle. Then, in verse 21, Jesus adds that this kind of demon can only be cast out by prayer and fasting.

This verse emphasizes the need for spiritual discipline and reliance on God’s power through prayer and fasting. It implies that certain spiritual battles or challenges require a heightened level of dedication and devotion to God. Prayer and fasting are tools that can deepen one’s connection with God, strengthen faith, and bring about spiritual breakthroughs.

Prayer is the act of communicating with God, seeking His guidance, expressing gratitude, and making our requests known to Him. It is a vital aspect of the Christian faith and a means of aligning our will with God’s will.

Fasting, on the other hand, involves abstaining from food or certain activities for a specific period of time, with the intention of drawing closer to God, seeking His wisdom, and demonstrating discipline over one’s physical desires. Fasting can serve as a reminder of our dependence on God and a means of focusing our hearts and minds on Him.

Jesus’ statement in Matthew 17:21 suggests that some challenges, such as dealing with demonic oppression, require a deeper level of spiritual preparation and intimacy with God. While the verse specifically addresses casting out a particular kind of demon, the underlying principle can be applied more broadly to various spiritual battles and obstacles we may face in life.

It is important to note that prayer and fasting are not magical formulas that guarantee immediate solutions or outcomes. They are means of seeking God’s guidance, humbling ourselves before Him, and aligning our hearts with His purposes. They can help us grow in faith, deepen our relationship with God, and gain spiritual strength to overcome challenges.

The verse reminds us that our reliance should be on God’s power and not on our own abilities or efforts alone.